Grave figure "ntadi" in reflective posture ("fumani")
D. R. Congo, Lower Congo province / Northern Angola, Bambona
sold
EUR 3,200
Provenance
Gottfried Künzi, Oberdorf / Solothurn SwitzerlandArnold Bamert, Solothurn, Switzerland (1967 or 1970)
Walter Stanley Schwab, Murten, Switzerland (“WS 555”) (2005)
Size
H: 41 cm
H: 16.1 inch
Description
steatit (soapstone), missing part (head ornament), base
These stone sculptures are idealized portraits and were placed on the graves of highly respected people. They are known as “bitumba” (sing. “tumba”). They are considered the seat of the dead spirits, who offered protection and are called “ntadi” (pl.“mintadi”).
The posture of the figure, the head resting on the left hand, the right hand resting on the hips are characteristic of these figures. It is intended to symbolize the wisdom of rulers who weigh carefully before acting and rethink the situation.
The figure wears a necklace and a headdress with four leopard claws. Both indicate that it was the leader of a lineage or clan.
Comparing literature
Allison, Philip, African Stone Sculpture, New York 1968, p. 42 ff. Verswijver, Gustaaf & Els de Palmenaer u. a. (Hg.), Afrikanische Kunst, München, London, New York 1998, p. 15, ill. 1Publications
AHDRC: 0170826